
Mon Jan 26 02:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Rams Offensive Coordinator LaFleur Praises Seahawks Coach Macdonald Amidst Close Rivalry
The Story:
Los Angeles Rams Offensive Coordinator Mike LaFleur recently offered high praise for Seattle Seahawks Head Coach Mike Macdonald, acknowledging his evolving strategies and adaptability. This comes after a tightly contested regular season between the two NFC West rivals, where the Rams barely edged out the Seahawks in point differential and split their head-to-head matchups. The article highlights the Rams’ defensive success against the Seahawks, particularly their ability to intercept quarterback Sam Darnold, and quarterback Matthew Stafford’s superior performance.
Key Points:
- Mike LaFleur praised Mike Macdonald‘s coaching acumen and ability to evolve his strategies.
- The Rams and Seahawks split their regular season contests and ended with a one-point differential in total points scored, favoring the Rams.
- The Rams’ defense has been successful against the Seahawks, intercepting Sam Darnold six times.
- Matthew Stafford has outperformed Sam Darnold in their matchups.
- The Rams have developed a reputation for winning close games.
Key Takeaways:
- Despite being division rivals, there’s professional respect between the Rams and Seahawks coaching staffs.
- The close rivalry suggests that future games between the Rams and Seahawks will likely be highly competitive.
- The Rams’ defensive success against Sam Darnold could be a key factor in future matchups.
- The Rams’ ability to win close games is an asset as they move forward.
Impact Analysis:
The close rivalry and strategic respect between the Rams and Seahawks coaching staffs suggest an intensifying chess match between the two teams in the NFC West. The Rams’ defensive success against Darnold, coupled with Stafford’s performance, could influence the Seahawks’ offseason decisions regarding their quarterback situation and offensive strategy. Ultimately, these factors will shape the balance of power within the division for the foreseeable future.